Engraved Lamp Stand with Chevron Pattern

Unknown

dated A.H. 986/ 1578–79 CE · Brass; cast, engraved, and inlaid with black and red pigment · Islamic Art

The poetry inscribed around this lamp stand expresses mystical Sufi sentiments. Lyrical verses from the Bustan (Orchard) of Sa'di are placed in three zigzag-shaped registers covering the shaft: I remember one night as my eyes would not sleep I heard a moth speaking with a candle. [Said the moth:] "Because I am a lover, it is [only] right that I should burn. [But,] why should you weep and burn yourself up?"

Artist

Unknown

Date

dated A.H. 986/ 1578–79 CE

Medium

Brass; cast, engraved, and inlaid with black and red pigment

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1929